The symbol above is from ISO 15223. Its definition is “Do not re-use”.
As the standard document notes, this symbol is not intended to mean “single patient use” or “single procedure use”. Items labelled as “Single Use” should be placed in the appropriate waste container once the clinical use of the device has finished on the patient.
Single Use equipment is universally recognised as an effective strategy in the healthcare sector which minimises the risks of cross-infection.
Single Use devices don’t have to withstand the rigours of reprocessing and allow the use of different materials and more complex designs. All manufacturers are required to have data to show that a Single Use device will function safely for that one use only. Modern devices are commonly fabricated from synthetic materials. The interaction of these devices with the human body often leaves a biofilm on all the surfaces of the device which may be impossible to decontaminate.
Multigate Medical Products does not supply reprocessing instructions for any of our products labelled as “Single Use”.
As with all sterile items, you need to check the integrity of the packaging before use. If the packaging is damaged in any way it can no longer be considered sterile. Items left over from an opened kit or procedure pack that are not used are considered as contaminated from an infection control perspective.
If you have any questions or would like more information on this topic, please contact your local Multigate Business Development Manager or our Customer Service Department.
